Narp, a novel member of the pentraxin family, promotes neurite outgrowth and is dynamically regulated by neuronal activity

Cynthia C. Tsui, Neal G. Copeland, Debra J. Gilbert, Nancy A. Jenkins, Carol Barnes, Paul F. Worley

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

262 Scopus citations

Abstract

Stimulus-linked RNA and protein synthesis is required for establishment of long-term neuroplasticity. To identify molecular mechanisms underlying long-term neuroplasticity, we have used differential cDNA techniques to clone a novel immediate early gene (IEG) that is rapidly induced in neurons of the hippocampus and cortex by physiological synaptic activity. Analysis of the deduced amino acid sequence indicates homology to members of the pentraxin family of secreted lectins that include C-reactive protein and serum amyloid P component. Regions of homology include an 3 amino acid 'pentraxin signature' sequence and a characteristic pentraxin calcium-binding domain. We have termed this gene and the encoded protein Narp (from neuronal activity-regulated pentraxin). Biochemical analyses confirm the presence of a functional signal sequence, and Narp is secreted by transfected COS-1 cells in culture. Additionally, Narp binds to agar matrix in a calcium-dependent manner consistent with the lectin properties of the pentraxin family. When cocultured with Narp-secreting COS-1 cells, neurons of cortical explants exhibit enhanced growth of neuronal dendritic processes. Neurite outgrowth-promoting activity is also observed using partially purified Narp and can be specifically immunodepleted, demonstrating that Narp is the active principle. Narp is fully active at a concentration of ~40 ng/ml, indicating a potency similar to known peptide growth factors. Because Narp is rapidly regulated by neuronal activity, its lectin and growth-promoting activities are likely to play role in the modification of cellular properties that underlie long-term plasticity.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)2463-2478
Number of pages16
JournalJournal of Neuroscience
Volume16
Issue number8
DOIs
StatePublished - Apr 15 1996

Keywords

  • growth factors
  • immediate-early genes
  • lectins
  • long-term potentiation
  • neurite outgrowth
  • pentraxins

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Neuroscience

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